The snake from eden
Kurt sat hunched over his desk, textbooks and notes scattered around him. His brow furrowed in concentration as he tried to focus on the material before him.
However, his mind kept drifting back to the events of the day, making it nearly impossible to absorb any information.
He had been mobbed by fellow students from the nearby university for none other than simply existing as a mutant. Some had even found out where he was currently staying and began to vandalize the building.
It's still hard to convince his current landlord to not kick him out for the unwanted attention and property damages done. So on top of his studies he's finding himself in need to find a new home.
His thoughts would be abruptly halted when something is splattered onto his window causing him to jump.
SPLAT! “Get outta here Muttie!”
Kurt groaned, shaking his head in annoyance “ not again….”
Ever since he began to live on his own his patients were put to the test day to day.. it took every fiber in his being not to retaliate but deep down he wanted to so badly. It took all his strength not to cry himself to sleep no matter how hopeless he felt. He just yearned for a way to find some relief.
Thoughts of going back to the d men filled his mind from time to time but the betrayal he experienced. Caused a deeper pain than the lonely ache provided by his isolation.
Unbeknownst to him as nightcrawler’s frustration grew, the temperature in the room seemed to drop. A soft whispering breeze rustled the papers on his desk. The lamp flickered, casting eerie shadows around the room. Suddenly, the window burst open, and a dark figure glided into the room.
His head snapped up from the sudden intrusion. His eyes glowed softly in the dim light as he zeroed in on the shadowy figure. His tail slowly swayed behind him as he tensed, readying himself for a possible fight.
"Who's there?!" he demanded, his voice a low agitated growl as he stalked forward.
The figure stepped forward, revealing Mephisto's devilish grin. His eyes gleamed with mischief and dark promise.
"Now, now, Kurt. Is that any way to greet an old... friend?" Mephisto's voice said in a mischievous chuckle as he circled the blue elf slowly. His eyes inspecting nightcrawler closely
He took note of his rather tired and almost disheveled appearance. Despite Kurt's best efforts to stay well dressed his button up was clearly wrinkled, his hair appears greasy, unwashed tied up in a messy bun and to top it off he early lacked sleep.
Kurt's eyes narrowed suspiciously as he watched Mephisto circle the desk. He could feel the demon's dark energy emanating around him, making his skin crawl.
He tried to stand tall, his hands clenched into fists at his sides. "What do you want, Mephisto? I'm busy," Kurt hissed.
Mephisto amused by this chuckled, his fingers trailing along the edge of the desk as he stopped behind Kurt. "Oh, I think you'll make time for me, Kurt. After all, I have a proposition that could relieve all your…current predicament.”
Kurt's eyes would narrow as he spun around to face Mephisto. His voice filled with annoyance. "And what makes you think I'm even interested in anything you have to offer? The last time I checked I'm not some naive kid anymore."
Mephisto's grin widened, unfazed by Kurt's icy tone.finding it amusing that he was able to rile the younger man so much."Oh, believe me I know you are not naive, little demon.”
“ No to me to mention after 6…7 years. You've grown into quite the...strapping young man." His gaze raked over Kurt's body appreciatively.
Kurt's expression darkened, his face twisting into a fanged sneer. "Cut the crap, Mephisto. I know you're not here to compliment my looks. Spit out whatever it is you want.”
Mephisto laughed,"Straight to the point, as always. I admire that in you, Kurt." He straightened up, his dark eyes glinting with amusement and something darker. "Here's the deal."
Kurt crossed his arms over his chest, his gaze boring into Mephisto's with a mixture of suspicion and annoyance. "Yes?”
He was 18 the last time he had a run in with the demon. Since then he had taken note of his cryptic remarks and games. He also remembered how opportunistic Mephisto was. The demon liked to watch his prey at all times. Only to come in when he's at his weakest to get what he needs…
" If you allow me to help you I'll give you an outlet for all that pent up anger and frustrations, I'll give you power and control . The ability that will allow you to stand against those who dare mistreat those like you.”
Kurt eyed him skeptically searching his face for any signs of deceit.
The demon smiles as he continues “You'll no longer feel the need to run from cower in fear of being found out. Living in squalor like this.” He says gesturing to the room they were in.
“ If You take my offer I will turn you into a towable force of nature ." Mephisto's voice dropped to a low, seductive whisper as he leaned tipping up Kurt's chin to force im.ro gaze into his eyes. "And in exchange...I just need a little something from you in return."~
Kurt's heart rate picked up as his gaze locked onto Mephisto's as the demon's hand touched his chin. "What exactly are you looking for, Mephisto?"
Mephisto's grin took on a wicked edge as his thumb brushed teasingly against Kurt's lower lip. "Well ... .outside of the actual price..let's just say I enjoy watching strong-willed individuals grapple with the seductive allure of power... and the consequences of embracing it." His eyes flashed with devilish amusement as he evaded the question.
Kurt's breath hitched, his skin crawling at the intimate touch. He jerked his head back, breaking contact. "I'm not some plaything for you to manipulate, Mephisto." His voice was low and dangerous, but there was a tremor of uncertainty beneath the bravado.
Mephisto chuckled darkly, unfazed by Kurt's sudden coldness. "Oh, Kurt... I never said you were. In fact, I'm counting on you not being one. In fact this will really be a favor on my behalf all things considered. I think an ounce of power would look rather nice on someone like you."
He took a step back, his hands clasped behind his back, his gaze never leaving Kurt's face. " You've spent so long following others but you've yearned to forge your own path. To be your own man but you just hinder yourself with guilt when you vear away from...Xavier's teachings. Always fearing what others would think of you if you acted out on your anger."
Kurt's expression flickered, Mephisto's words striking a nerve. He hated that the demon was right, that he was so often held back by fear of judgment, fear of betraying Xavier's trust. "And what's stopping me from just..."
Mephisto's grin sharpened as he leaned forward, his voice dropping to a purring whisper. "Just? Just what? Embracing your true nature without restraint? Without the crushing weight of expectations and rules?" He slid a hand over the desk, fingertips grazing Kurt's wrist teasingly.
Kurt's breath hitched as Mephisto's hand brushed against his wrist. His heart pounded in his chest, a sense of longing welling up within him. He wanted that freedom, craved it with an intensity that scared him. He swallowed hard, his throat suddenly dry.
He pulled his arm away, casting his gaze to the floor.
Mephisto's eyes gleamed with triumph as he sensed Kurt's wavering resolve. He leaned in closer, his breath hot against Kurt's ear. "Nothing's stopping you, Kurt. No one's holding you back but yourself and your misplaced sense of loyalty."
Kurt's breath hitched as Mephisto's breath fanned across his ear. His body tensed, a shiver running down his spine. The demon's words were like a physical touch, stirring something primal and long-dormant within him.
Mephisto's hand snaked up Kurt's arm, his touch gentle yet firm. "Imagine it, Kurt. Unleashing the full extent of your powers without fear of consequence. No more holding back, no more guilt. Just pure, unadulterated power. Don't you want to be unrestrained?"
Kurt's mind raced, the visual image of unbound power and freedom flooding his thoughts. He wanted it, God help him, he wanted it so badly.
But he couldn't just jump at the offer so foolishly without knowing the true cost of it all. He needed to know the price he needed to know what this demon wanted from.him in return,"And... and what would you get out of it?"
Mephisto's hand reached Kurt's shoulder, giving it a squeeze as if sharing a secret. "Well for starters a bit of entertainment, I'd get to watch as you grapple with the responsibilities that come with such power. As you face the repercussions of your actions. the drama of your former loved ones finding out eventually. But in the end the true price may be something heavier than that of course...only if you are willing to."
Kurt's eyes widened at Mephisto's implication of what Mephisto truly meant. "Are you saying you...you want me to sell my soul to you?"
Mephisto snorted before he threw back his head and laughed, a sound both menacing and alluring. “Oh, Kurt, you're an adorably naive little imp sometimes. Who said anything about selling souls?
He giggles wiping away a tear
Kurt's confusion deepened, his gaze locked on Mephisto's laughing face. "Then what? What do you want from me?" He exclaimed exasperatedly , his heart pounding in his chest with anticipation and confusion. "What even is the price of this freedom you're offering to me?"
Mephisto's laughter faded, replaced by a serene smile as he looked at Kurt. "A promise, Kurt. A simple promise. Promise me your loyalty, your devotion, and I'll grant you the power you so desperately crave. No contracts, no bindings, just a promise between two willing parties."
Kurt's mind reeled as he considered Mephisto's offer. A promise, not a soul. It seemed almost too good to be true. He swallowed hard, his eyes never leaving the demon's face. "What happens if I break that promise?" He asked, his voice trembling slightly.
Mephisto's smile widened, a glint of something dark and hungry in his eyes. "Ah, a question that shows you're not as naive as I thought. If you break your promise..." He paused, letting the tension build. "Then the consequences would be most... unpleasant for you. You see I'm anything but a kind being my little imp. I rarely reach out for companionship. Most beings on this planet are rather dull and not at all trust worthy…”
Mephisto continues his body seemingly growing larger looming over Nightcrawler in an intimidating fashion, his body twisting and distorting in a horrific manner,“So when the occasion like this arises and I do find someone I see something in I don't like having my time wasted. I'm sure you understand what it feels like to be betrayed do you not?”
Kurt's breath hitched, his heart pounding like a drum in his chest. The demon's point was made clear and did little to reassure him, but the allure of the offer was still too strong to resist. He took a deep breath, his mind made up. "And if I keep it? What then?"
Without saying a word Mephisto returned back to normal. He leaned back a bit, a look of smug satisfaction spreading across his face. His smile only grew wider, revealing teeth that seemed almost too sharp.
This was his way of getting nightcrawlers to know only one thing. His choice going forward would have consequences.
And this would be probably one of the biggest gambles he has ever made in his life.
Kurt's resolve wavered for a moment as he saw the eager anticipation on Mephisto's face. But the temptation was too great, the pull of power and freedom too strong.
He was tired spiritually… physically the constant fear of harassment on his way to his apartment.
Never fully feeling safe when in public. Combined with the crippling loneliness felt since he had distanced himself from the x men. It had all been weighing down on him.
This offer was seductive in soo many ways. Even if it was a trap he'd at least not be alone and Mephisto didn't seem to have any plans for him….yet.
He took a deep breath and said, "Then I accept your offer I promise. Loyalty, devotion...to you for as long as you find use of me.”
Mephisto's eyes glowed with an ominous satisfaction as Kurt spoke the words. The very air around them seemed to crackle with energy, sealing the promise.
"Excellent," Mephisto purred, his voice like velvet as he stepped forward grabbing Kurt by his hand to kiss it. "You won't regret this, darling.”
As that was done Kurt felt a surge of power coursing through his veins, invigorating and terrifying all at once.
He gazed at his arms, the fur on his limbs now standing on end, tingling with an energy beyond his comprehension.
“ I-what is this I..I can feel it all this feeling inside me. What now?” His voice was a mixture of pure shock and unsureness.
The demon shrugged,“ the next choices you make are all yours my beloved.”
Kurt pauses, staring up at the demon, “ that's a rather weird nickname to give a partner, don't you think Mephisto….”
The elder demon chuckles softly cupping Kurt's cheek, “ not when it's the name I
plan on calling my lover…”
Kurt blushes as he comes to the realization as a golden band formed on one of his fingers “ You don't mean….”
The Demon let out a booming laugh as the world around them twisted and reformed into a hellish landscape.
As the world around Kurt shifted Mephisto would hold up his hand and with a graceful flick of his wrist, another golden band materialized on Mephisto's own finger, matching Kurt's perfectly. “Oh, that is exactly what you are thinking, my little imp.”
“You have agreed to loyalty and devote yourself to me as my trusted companion. In other words we are married!”